Louise Ganus (left), Harding first lady from 1965-1987, and Leah Burks, Harding first lady from 1987-2013, display the preliminary plan for the Harding First Ladies Garden, which will be located on campus on the north side of Park Avenue across from Keller dorm.

April 26, 2013

Associated Women for Harding honor Harding University first lady

At their annual National Council Luncheon, Associated Women for Harding, a University organization that provides need-based scholarships for students, honored Leah Burks, wife of University President David B. Burks who will retire from the presidency June 1.

Following a tribute slideshow, a new AWH scholarship named in honor of Leah Burks was announced as part of AWH’s Power of 10 Challenge, an effort begun by 10 members with a goal to raise $10,000 in 10 months.

In addition, AWH announced plans to construct a garden to recognize past, present and future first ladies of Harding and celebrate and honor the role they play during their husbands’ presidencies. The garden, which will feature a fountain, colonnades and greenery, will be located across from Keller dorm on the north side of Park Avenue.

“It will be a great addition to Harding’s campus, and it will connect the front part of the campus to the expansions occurring across Park Avenue,” said Liz Howell, assistant to the president for parent and alumni relations. “It will also provide a peaceful area for people to enjoy that also honors the first ladies of Harding.”